We all love the summer, particularly after a long, cold winter. Seeing the sun again and feeling warm lead us to spend more time outdoors than in cooler months.

Higher temperatures can unfortunately bring problems for older people who may not be as used to the outdoor temperatures as we are.

There are some things that we as live-in carers can do to ensure that our clients enjoy the warm weather and stay safe.

Check with the GP

Make sure that the medication your client takes still works in warmer temperatures. Some medication needs to be stored at temperatures lower than 78 degrees Fahrenheit (which is normal room temperature), and with the warmer weather you may find that the room is not as cool as in previous months.

Clothing

While your client may be comfortable in their fleecy jogging bottoms, these will be far too hot as the temperatures start to rise. You will need tact and distraction to persuade your client to change for lighter clothing to be comfortable. Light colours and loose-fitting clothes will help to keep your client cooler.

Buy some hats

If your client does not wear a sun hat, or feels embarrassed wearing one, then you may want to get one for yourself and make them feel less uncomfortable. Wearing a hat is important for clients who are losing their hair as the top of the head will burn quicker than when they had hair.

Sunscreen

It’s a good idea to lather on the lotion if your client is going out in the heat of the day – or in any direct sunlight. You may need the family to persuade your client to use it, but it is worth trying as sunburn is not pleasant and can be harmful for an ill client.

Water

Many of our clients are notoriously bad at drinking water – in fact, most people don’t drink enough. You may want to try offering flavoured water instead of plain to tempt them a little. Fruit such as watermelon can be chopped up and taken with you on outings so that your client gets some extra water this way.

Head for cool places

Older people with medical issues can be adversely affected by a small increase in temperatures. Rather than visiting outdoor areas, you may think about indoor places such as malls which are air conditioned all the time. Older people and particularly those who are not healthy are vulnerable to excess heat. Their bodies may not adjust to high temperatures like ours do, so keeping them cool may be a matter of priority.

Never underestimate hyperthermia

Abnormally high body temperature is called hyperthermia, with heat stroke being an advanced type of hyperthermia. Heat stroke can be life threatening so you should be aware of the signs.

• Headaches more than usual
• Flushed dry skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid pulse and heavy breathing
• Confusion and agitation
• Lack of sweat even out on a hot day
• Fainting
• Body temperature of more than 104 degrees

Final thoughts

Older people may be unable to tell when they are dehydrated because some illnesses mean the body temperature is hard to regulate. Because of this, they may be more susceptible to heat stroke.

If you see that your client has any of these signs you should contact the doctor right away. You will also need to take your client to a cooler place, have them lie down and if possible cool them with an ice pack.

While summer can be a great time of year, we should never underestimate the adverse power of heat and the damage it can do to a frail or ill person.

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